Physical Comfort Research Articles

The Development of a Flexible Humidity Sensor Using MWCNT/PVA Thin Films.

The exponential demand for real-time monitoring applications has altered the course of sensor development, from sensor electronics miniaturization, e.g., resorting to printing techniques, to low-cost, flexible and functional wearable materials. Humidity sensing has been used in the prevention and diagnosis of medical conditions, as well as in the assessment of physical comfort. This paper presents a resistive flexible humidity sensor composed of silver interdigitated electrodes (IDTs) screen printed onto polyimide film and an active layer of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) dispersed in a water-soluble polymer, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Different MWCNT/PVA sensor sizes and MWCNT percentages are tested to study their effect on the initial electrical resistance (Ri) values and sensor response at different humidity percentages. The results show that the Ri values decrease with the increase in % MWCNT. The sensor size did not influence the sensor response, while the % MWCNT affected the sensor behavior upon relative humidity (RH) increments. The 1% MWCNT/PVA sensor showed the best response, reaching a relative electrical resistance, ΔR/R0, of 509% at 99% RH. Comparable with other reported sensors, the produced MWCNT/PVA flexible sensor is simpler, greener and shows a good sensitivity to humidity, being easily incorporated in wearable monitoring applications, from sports to medical fields.

A Robust Core-Shell Nanofabric with Personal Protection, Health Monitoring and Physical Comfort for Smart Sportswear.

Smart textiles with a high level of personal protection, health monitoring, physical comfort, and wearing durability are highly demanded in clothing for harsh application scenarios, such as modern sportswear. However, seamlessly integrating such a smart clothing system has been a long-sought but challenging goal. Herein, based on coaxial electrospinning techniques, a smart non-woven textile (Smart-NT) integrated with high impact resistance is developed, multisensory functions, and radiative cooling effects. This Smart-NT is comprised of core-shell nanofibers with an ionic conductive polymer sheath and an impact-stiffening polymer core. The soft smart textile, with a thickness of only 800µm, can attenuate over 60% of impact force, sense pressure stimulus with sensitivity up to 201.5 kPa-1, achieve temperature sensing resolution of 0.1°C, and reduce skin temperature by ≈17°C under a solar intensity of 1kWm-2. In addition, the stretchable Smart-NT is highly durable and robust, retaining its multifunction features over 10000 bending and multiple washing cycles. Finally, application scenarios are demonstrated for real-time health monitoring, body protection, and physical comfort of smart sportswear based on Smart-NT for outdoor sports. The strategy opens a new avenue for seamless integration of smart clothing systems.

Virtual and experimental physical comfort testers for earplugs

Earplugs are commonly used to prevent noise-induced hearing loss, but their efficacy is often hindered by discomfort, impacting consistent and correct use. Comfort of earplugs can be comprehended through four dimensions: physical (related to biomechanical and thermal interactions with the earcanal), acoustical (linked to noise perception), functional (including usability and efficiency) and psychological (related to well-being and satisfaction). The evaluation of (dis)comfort involves intricate interactions among components of a triad formed by the user, the earplug, and the work environment. Recent research by the authors has identified key psychosocial and physical characteristics of the triad influencing earplug physical discomfort. This study examines specific physical characteristics of the coupling between the "user" and "earplug" components for disposable and reusable earplugs. Virtual and experimental comfort testers serve as modeling tools and test benches to enable this determination. Mechanical comfort testers of increased complexity designed to assess tribological characteristics of the earplug/earcanal system are introduced. The study starts with simple benches measuring radial forces, extraction forces and friction coefficients, progressing to more advanced tools assessing mechanical pressure in various earcanal shapes either with rigid walls or lined with skin. This work aims at providing earplugs comfort-driven design methods for manufacturers.

Relationship between Family Support and Quality of Life in Stroke Patients

Stroke is a disease of the brain in the form of impaired local nerve function that appears suddenly, progressively, and quickly. Family support is very influential on stroke patients, because family support is very instrumental in a form of assistance provided by family members to provide physical and psychological comfort when someone experiences illness and provides social support. This article review aims to determine the relationship between family support and quality of life in stroke patients. This study used the literature review method with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews & Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Scientific articles or journals were downloaded from PubMed, Garuda Portal, and Google Scholar with SINTA IV and V standards within 2020-2024. In this literature, it was found that family support is an aspect that plays an important role in the quality of life of stroke patients. Family support itself includes emotional support, appreciation support, instrumental support and information support. The family is the closest person who always interacts with post-stroke patients, so the role of the family is very important in an effort to provide various supports that create a sense of security for patients.

The Relationship Between Physical, Psychological Health and Space Comfort in the Elderly: A Qualitative Study

The aging process is characterized by a decline in living abilities that can affect the physical and mental well-being of the elderly. The various problems experienced by the elderly require facilities that provide comfort and interior design that supports their physical and mental health. This study aims to analyze the relationship between physical health, psychological health, and space comfort in improving the quality of life of the elderly at the Elderly School of Happy Culture House (SLRBB) in Depok City. The research method used is a qualitative method with data collection techniques through interviews and observations. Data was also obtained through a review of literature relevant to the research topic. Analysis was conducted using triangulation techniques, where data from various sources were compared and put together to obtain more comprehensive results. The results showed that there is a mutually influential relationship between physical health, psychological health, and spatial comfort in the elderly. Good physical health allows the elderly to carry out activities independently, while positive psychological health supports mental well-being. Spatial comfort, including elderly-friendly interior design, increases safety and comfort, and creates a more supportive environment that improves the overall quality of life of the elderly. The implications of this study show the importance of creating a holistic environment for older adults, which not only focuses on physical health, but also psychological well-being and spatial comfort. This can be applied to various programs or facilities that aim to improve the quality of life of the elderly.

Effects of Hand Massage on Women's Pain, Comfort Levels and Flatulence Times after Caesarean Section: A Randomized Controlled Study

IntroductionPractices such as hand massage after cesarean delivery are needed to improve the quality of care. This study was aimed at investigating effects of hand massage given to women who have had a cesarean section on their pain level, comfort level and flatulence time in the postpartum period. MethodsThe data of this randomized controlled experimental study were collected between August 2022 and January 2023. The study was completed with 182 women (intervention group=91, control group=91). The Personal Information Form, Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Postpartum Flatulence and Analgesic Drug Information Form, and Postpartum Comfort Scale (PCS) were used to collect data. Women in the intervention group received a total of 60-minutes of hand massage. ResultsIn the study, the women in the intervention group obtained lower scores from the VAS (t=-7.166; p<0.01), and higher scores from the overall PCS (t=3.301; p=0.001), physical comfort (t=10.277; p<0.001), psychospiritual comfort (t=10.583; p<0.001) and sociocultural comfort (t=7.774; p<0.001) subscales than did the women in the control group. The flatulence time of the women in the intervention group was shorter than that of the women in the control group (t=-6.433; p<0.001). ConclusionIt was concluded that hand massage given to the women after cesarean section reduced their pain level and increased their comfort level, and shortened the flatulence time. Registration numberNCTXXX

Validation of the 40-Item and 24-Item Short Version of the Person-Centred Obesity Care Instrument for Patients Living with Obesity

Introduction: Person-centred care (PCC) may hold promise for improved healthcare experiences and outcomes among patients living with obesity. A validated instrument to assess the delivery of PCC to patients living with obesity is, however, currently lacking. This study aimed to validate such an instrument. In this article, we describe the development and psychometric testing of the 40-item and 24-item short version of the Person-Centred Obesity Care (PCOC) instrument. Methods: A total of 590 individuals living with obesity (BMI 33.4 ± 3.9) from a representative Dutch sample completed the 49-item PCOC instrument measuring the eight dimensions of PCC (patient preferences, physical comfort, coordination of care, emotional support, access to care, continuity and transition, information and education, and family and friends), and two measures of satisfaction with care. We performed confirmatory factor analyses to verify the factor structure of the instrument and examined its reliability and validity. Results: Fit indicators of the first model with all 49 items showed that the model left room for improvement (comparative fit index [CFI] <0.90). A 40-item version was obtained with satisfactory-to-good fit (standardized root mean square residual [SRMR] = 0.05, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.06, CFI = 0.90). The instrument demonstrated good reliability, and the relationship between the PCOC and two indicators of satisfaction with care supported the validity of the scale. Shortening the instrument only further improved the fit indicators, resulting in the development of a 24-item short version (SRMR = 0.04, RMSEA = 0.05, CFI = 0.96), with similar results in terms of reliability and validity. Conclusion: The 40-item PCOC instrument and the 24-item short version showed to be reliable and valid instruments for the assessment of PCC among patients living with obesity. Based on the results, the 40 and 24-item PCOC are promising tools that can be used by clinicians and researchers to explore PCC delivery for patients living with obesity.

Measuring the Realisation of Well-Being Needs of Adolescents: Validation of the Social Production Function Instrument for the Level of Well-Being–Short (SPF-ILs)

Adolescent well-being is increasingly scrutinized due to its decline. This study was conducted to validate a theory-driven instrument for the measurement of well-being needs with a sample of Dutch adolescents. The short (15-item) Social Production Function Instrument for the Level of well-being (SPF-ILs) measures whether a person’s needs for stimulation, comfort, behavioural confirmation, affection and status are met. In this study, its psychometric properties for adolescents were examined. Data collected in spring 2018 (T1) and spring 2019 (T2) from 1,304 Dutch adolescents (53.0% girls) aged 11–17 (mean, 13.7 ± 1.1) years were used. The instrument’s factor structure, internal consistency, construct validity, and gender and age factorial invariance were evaluated. The results showed that the SPF-ILs is valid and reliable for the assessment of adolescents’ well-being needs realisation. Confirmatory factor analyses supported the five-factor (stimulation, comfort, behavioural confirmation, affection and status) model, showing good internal consistency (α = 0.86 at T1, 0.88 at T2), convergent/divergent validity, as well as gender and age factorial invariance. Comparison across groups revealed the expected differences in the realisation of physical (comfort and stimulation) and social (behavioural confirmation, status and affection) well-being needs between girls and boys and over time. SPF-ILs use increases our understanding of how adolescents achieve well-being via the fulfilment of well-being needs. The maintenance of adolescents’ well-being is a global challenge, and this study revealed clear differences in adolescents’ realisation of well-being needs, increasing our understanding of what interventions are needed to support such realisation.

South African Teachers’ Insights on Improving the Sensory Classroom Teacher Questionnaire (SCTQ) for Inclusive Education and ADHD Support

The Sensory Classroom Teacher Questionnaire (SCTQ) is a psycho-educational tool designed to empower teachers in creating sensory-rich, inclusive environments that promote diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusivity through the application of sensory ergonomics. Unlike other tools that focus on isolated strategies, the SCTQ takes a holistic approach by optimizing the overall classroom environment to meet the sensory and ergonomic needs of learners, particularly those with ADHD and sensory integration/processing challenges. This makes the SCTQ especially vital in diverse and under-resourced quintile schools, where creating sensory-optimized, inclusive environments is essential for fostering equitable learning experiences. By addressing sensory needs through thoughtful classroom design, the SCTQ not only strengthens learners’ cognitive development and socio-emotional well-being but also improves behavior regulation, physical comfort, and overall functioning. This manuscript is part of a larger exploratory mixed-methods study that validated the SCTQ using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Here, the focus is on the qualitative aspect, utilizing thematic analysis to explore data from 23 focus group interviews with 88 Grade 1, 2, and 3 teachers from various Quintile 1–5 schools in Gauteng, South Africa. Guided by the enactivism paradigm, the study emphasizes the crucial role teachers play in creating and adapting sensory environments. Their insights were key to refining the SCTQ, ensuring it is practical, developmentally appropriate, culturally, linguistically, contextually, and socio-economically relevant. Developed through collaboration among researchers, specialists, and teachers, the SCTQ supports sensory ergonomic practices, raises awareness of ADHD and sensory integration/processing challenges, and supports both learners’ potential and teachers’ well-being, contributing to a more sustainable and positive educational experience.

What does 'feeling at home' mean for adults with intellectual disabilities living in group homes in England?

Shared housing for adults with intellectual disabilities with staff support, is a common housing model internationally. We explored an overlooked aspect of group homes, namely the extent to which they enable a sense of 'feeling at home' for residents. A diverse group of 19 housemates participated in a photovoice study. Participants took photos in their homes and discussed them in individual interviews and in groups. Data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Residents' experience of home was multi-dimensional. 'Feeling at home' related to home as a site of identity cultivation (personal home); physical comfort or 'misfitting' (physical home) and home as the locus of key relationships (social home). Achieving a sense of 'feeling at home' requires engagement in practices of home-making. Many of our participants required support from staff to engage in these practices. For some housemates their experience of home was conditional and precarious.

Opioid-free anesthesia improves postoperative recovery quality of small and medium-sized surgery: a prospective, randomized controlled study.

Opioid anesthesia (OA) is currently the predominant anesthetic method. However, its associated side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, coupled with the principle of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS), have spurred the adoption of opioid-free anesthesia (OFA) in select surgical procedures. For small and medium-sized operations, ERAS is particularly important. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of OFA, utilizing esketamine in combination with dexmedetomidine and sevoflurane, on postoperative recovery quality following small and medium-sized surgical interventions. A total of 120 patients who underwent various small and medium-sized operations were randomly allocated to OFA and OA groups. The OA group received sufentanyl and sevoflurane, while the OFA group received esketamine, dexmedetomidine, and sevoflurane. The primary outcome measure was the postoperative quality of recovery-40 scores (QoR-40) 24 hours after surgery. Secondary outcomes included hemodynamic changes at different time intervals, the incidences of adverse events were recorded. Patients in the OFA group exhibited a higher QoR-40 score of 184.0 (182.0, 186.2) compared to 182.0 (180.0, 184.0) in the OA group (P<0.001). The disparities were particularly noble in terms of Physical comfort and Emotional status. Multivariable analysis identified postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) as a significant independent factor impacting QoR-40 (β=-4.49 [-6.1, -2.87], P<0.001). Hemodynamic stability was more pronounced in the OFA than in the OA group. The incidence of PONV was substantially lower in the OFA group (one [1.6%] vs. 14 [25%], P<0.001), with a reduced need for vasoactive drugs (five [7.8%] vs. 15 [26.8%], P=0.005), and a lower incidence of respiratory depression (0 [0%] vs. six [10.7%], P=0.009). OFA improves the postoperative recovery quality in small and medium-sized surgical procedures, potentially attributed to decreased incidence of PONV. Additionally, OFA facilitates the maintenance of more stable hemodynamics throughout the operation.

Experiences of water poverty in the metropolitan area of Barcelona: implications for the Global North

ABSTRACT Water poverty, primarily understood as a problem of affordability, is increasingly important in developed countries. It burdens vulnerable households with mounting debts or deprives them of this fundamental resource. Faced with this threat, households may modify their habits to reduce consumption and seek also assistance to reduce the amount of the water bill. Both strategies imply stressful efforts, often exacerbated by unexpected events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Using semi-structured interviews with 35 vulnerable households in a working-class town near Barcelona, in this paper we blend a quantitative assessment of home water habits with a qualitative analysis of strategies to reduce water bill costs. Results reveal a strong commitment to water savings but clashes with essential household needs, particularly for children. Respondents lament that despite intense water saving, bills remain high, given water's perceived expense and limited subsidy access. In sum, addressing the issue of water poverty from the subjective experience of those struggling against it in their daily lives allows to identify situations where basic physical and mental comfort of the more vulnerable is under severe stress. These experiences and perceptions are linked to sociopolitical and economic processes such as accumulation by dispossession or ecological modernization, contributing to water poverty.

Individual differences in perceived changes and impacts on well-being of working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic

This study examines how individual differences in employees' demographics, physical workspace, job satisfaction, workplace support, and pandemic-induced changes affected subjective well-being, productivity, and overall flourishing (Flourishing Index, FI) while working from home (WFH). A cohort of 602 employees in Bangkok, Thailand, was surveyed. Factor Analysis of Mixed Data (FAMD) revealed underlying interactions between variables that reflected differences in FI scores and work-related perceptions. In-person focus group interviews were conducted with 30 participants following their return to work to deepen understanding of aggregate survey responses. We found that the flourishing domains and short-term positive and negative affects are significantly influenced by satisfaction with the physical environment, demographics (e.g., age, marital status, and employment tier), and perceived changes in emotions, job demand, and resources. Individuals who enjoyed higher well-being ratings while WFH tended to be male, above 35 years old, in more senior employment positions, and married or living with a partner. Qualitative results confirmed how individual differences provided resilience and well-being under WFH while revealing more nuanced aspects of employer-employee support relevant to future personnel interventions. The variable groups also interact with each other, suggesting potential scenarios where individuals and organizations can implement more targeted interventions, such as physical environmental comfort, work-life balance, and social system support in future WFH situations to sustain employees’ well-being. It also shows that flourishing can be used as an indicator of worker well-being that reflects many nuanced life aspects, offering a new management tool for workplace transitions to WFH and hybrid models.

Comfort distance between patients and pharmacists during medication instruction: A prospective observational study at a cancer chemotherapy center.

The distance from the patient is a crucial factor in the communication with patients. The distance between patients and pharmacists varies depending on several factors. In this study, we aimed to investigate the relationship between comfort distance and patients' physical condition and mood by measuring this distance at a chemotherapy center. A total of 114 patients were surveyed regarding their physical condition and mood. The distance at which the patients were best able to talk to the pharmacists was measured. For comfort distance measurement, the pharmacists were instructed to approach or move away from the patients. The correlation between physical condition, mood, and comfort distance was examined in both male and female patients, and no significant correlation was found; however, there was a strong correlation between physical condition and mood in female patients. We looked at correlations by further dividing patients into those over and under 65 years of age and found a slight correlation with comfort distance in women under 65. They tended to shorten the distance when they felt well and lengthen the distance when they felt not well. No correlation was found between physical condition or mood and comfort distance in male or female. A slight correlation was observed when age was included; however, the results were not satisfactory. By directly measuring the distance in actual patients, we obtained an actual measurement of the comfort distance that synthesized the patient's condition and various backgrounds during chemotherapy, providing a foothold for future studies.

Convective heat transfer and drag coefficients of human body in multiple crowd densities and configurations in semi-outdoor scenarios

This study numerically assessed the impact of human crowd density and outdoor wind conditions (average velocity, its profile, and direction) on the convective heat transfer and drag coefficients (hc and Cd). Five different configurations of standing computer-simulated persons (CSPs) were tested in a semi-outdoor environment. A single isolated CSP, nine CSPs in a block array (with three representative crowd densities), and eighteen randomly allocated CSPs were used. The results indicated a significant impact of crowd density on the overall and local hc values. As the density increases, the body's obstruction against wind increases, resulting in lower heat loss. Newly proposed formulas for hc as a function of the average wind velocity (UAVE.) are (7.56 × UAVE.0.65), (8.02 × UAVE.0.64), and (8.26 × UAVE.0.63) for the high, medium, and low crowd densities, respectively. This reveals an overestimation of hc when an isolated human body is used. The hc values of the upper segments were the most affected by a 22 % reduction in the predicted hc. Moreover, when the crowd density increased, local hc and Cd decreased simultaneously, particularly in the chest, pelvis, and thigh segments. Oblique wind angles (60° and 150°) resulted in the highest hc and Cd values compared to other angles. The chest and pelvis were most affected by shifting the wind direction, indicating the dominance of these segments in concurrently controlling the thermal and drag performances. These results provide valuable insights into the optimization of human thermal and physical comfort models.

Assembly of MOFs derived Co-Mn bimetallic oxides on SiO2 nanofibrous membrane for indoor air purification

The development of highly efficient air purification materials contributes to acquiring quality indoor air that essential for improving physical health and life comfort. In this work, a Co3O4-CoMn2O4@SiO2 (COCMOS) nanofibrous membranes (NFMs) were prepared by thermal treating Mn-modified ZIF-67@SiO2 NFMs for efficient indoor air purification. The COCMOS NFMs exhibited 99.03 % and 99.999 % dust retention efficiencies for PM0.3 and PM2.5 with a low filtration resistance, respectively. Compared to the Co3O4@SiO2 (COS) NFMs (23 %), the HCHO removal efficiency of COCMOS NFMs was significantly improved at room temperature, reaching over 95 % within 25 min. The characterization results indicated that the thermal treatment of Mn-modified ZIF-67 induced the formation of a Co3O4-CoMn2O4 heterostructure on the surface of COCMOS NFMs. The Mn-Co bimetallic sites in this heterogeneous structure increased the amounts of oxygen vacancies and high valent cations and enhanced the redox properties of COCMOS NFMs, which contributed to its superior performance. This work provided insights on the design and preparation of highly efficient materials for indoor air purification.

Identifying the drivers of overall rating of cancer care: Insights from the second wave of the Swiss Cancer Patient Experiences study.

Patient experience surveys gather information on various aspects of care via numerous survey items. Identifying the most critical areas of patient experience to prioritize for quality care improvement can be challenging. The objective of this study was to determine which care experience items are the drivers influencing patients' overall rating of cancer care. Data from 2750 adult patients with cancer from the second wave of the Swiss Cancer Patient Experiences study were analyzed. This cross-sectional survey was conducted in eight Swiss hospitals from September 2021 to February 2022. Stepwise logistic regression examined the relationship between overall care rating and 29 patient experience items covering different patient-centered care dimensions while adjusting for sociodemographic and health variables. Overall, patients rated their cancer care experience at 8.9 out of 10. Stepwise regression identified seven drivers contributing to overall care rating. The strongest drivers were "professionals worked well together" (odds ratio [OR],4.81) and "tests were not repeated" (OR,2.09) from the coordination and integration dimension, "offered support for symptoms during treatment" (OR,2.11) from the physical comfort dimension, followed by "hospital staff ensured available home support" (OR,1.99), "offered to see health professional for concerns" (OR,1.91), "treatment options were explained" (OR,1.75), and "involved in treatment decisions as desired" (OR,1.68). This study evaluated the care experiences of patients with cancer with a comprehensive tool that identified seven key factors independently associated with overall care rating. By concentrating on these areas, hospitals can not only improve the patient care experience but also efficiently allocate resources to quality improvement initiatives.

The Hotel Architectural Design Factors Influencing Consumer Destinations: A Case Study of Three-Star Hotels in Hua Hin, Thailand

This study employs a mixed-methods research design to explore the architectural design and service factors influencing consumer choices in three-star hotels in Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Initial data were gathered through in-depth interviews with 60 architects, designers, and marketing experts to identify key factors. These factors were then used to conduct in-depth interviews with 70 Thai consumers and tourists. The qualitative data from both groups were analyzed using thematic content analysis to identify significant themes, while the quantitative data were assessed using chi-square goodness of fit tests to evaluate the significance of the identified factors. Findings indicate that aesthetic appeal, physical comfort, emotional comfort, and security and sensibility are critical in influencing hotel choice. These results provide valuable insights for hotel owners, designers, and marketers, emphasizing the importance of aligning hotel design and service offerings with consumer preferences. These factors will help create positive impressions, enhance satisfaction, and influence consumers’ decisions to choose and utilize hotel services.

Comparative study on the impact of remimazolam and sevoflurane on quality of recovery after transurethral resection of bladder tumor: A randomized controlled noninferiority study.

Remimazolam is manifested by rapid action, hemodynamic stability, and fast recovery. Our study aimed to investigate whether the quality of recovery (QoR) after remimazolam anesthesia in patients undergoing transurethral resection of bladder tumor, which is predominantly performed in the elderly population, is not inferior to that after conventional anesthesia using sevoflurane. Thirty-four patients were randomly allocated into either of group S (n = 17, receiving sevoflurane anesthesia), or group R (n = 17, receiving remimazolam anesthesia). The QoR was assessed by Korean version of QoR-15 questionnaire, on the day before and after the surgery. Scores acquired for each individual item, QoR-15 scores categorized into 5 dimensions (physical comfort, physical independence, psychological support, emotional state, and pain), and overall global score were subjected to comparative analysis. The primary outcome was postoperative global QoR-15, and a noninferiority delta value of 8.0 was employed. The postoperative global QoR-15 in the group S was 141 (134-146), and in the groups R was 133 (128-142) (P = .152). The mean difference of global QoR-15 (group S-group R) was 1.471 (95% confidence interval of -10.204 to 13.146), and the lower 95% confidence interval margin was lower than the noninferiority margin of -8.0. When comparing the QoR-15 sorted by 5 dimensions, pain scored higher in the group S (20 [18-20]) compared to the group R (15 [15-20], P = .032). The postoperative QoR following transurethral resection of bladder tumor was found to be lower in patients anesthetized with remimazolam in comparison to those anesthetized with sevoflurane.

Experiences when using different EHMR models: Implications for different designs and meeting user expectations

New elastomeric half-mask respirator (EHMR) models without exhalation valves (EVs) or with exhalation valve filters (EVFs) are facilitating expanded use in health settings to reduce workers' exposure to airborne hazards while acting as source control to prevent pathogen spread. The physical comfort of new models has not been assessed in comparison to previously used EHMRs with EVs. Researchers assessed 1,962 health care and emergency medical service personnels' self-reported adverse experiences from 2 cohorts while wearing EHMR models with EVs (cohort 1, n=1,080) and without EVs or with EVFs (cohort 2, n=882). Fisher exact test identified differences between the cohorts accounting for organizational factors when possible. Cohort 1 respondents experienced communication challenges and discomfort when wearing the EHMR >1hour statistically significantly more often than cohort 2. Cohort 2 respondents reported statistically significantly more instances of difficulty breathing, moisture buildup, being uncomfortable to wear <1hour, and being uncomfortably warm. Discomfort is prevalent among end users and more often among those wearing EHMRs without an EV/with an EVF. As EHMR research and development advances, prevalence in use may increase for emergency and routine situations. Organizations may not only need guidance about respirator selection but also model-specific selection.